Iconic electronic music label mau5trap has officially announced the next chapter of its long-running compilation series, We Are Friends Vol. 12, set for release on January 9, 2026. Continuing a tradition that began in 2012, the upcoming installment reinforces the label’s role as a key incubator for forward-thinking electronic and techno talent.
The new release marks the first disc of a two-part compilation, offering listeners an early glimpse into mau5trap’s evolving sonic direction as it heads into 2026.
A Legacy of Breaking New Artists
Founded by deadmau5, mau5trap has spent over a decade shaping modern electronic music through both breakthrough artist releases and curated compilations. The We Are Friends series has played a pivotal role in launching and amplifying the careers of influential names such as Rezz, i_o, BlackGummy, ATTLAS, and many others.
While opinions on deadmau5 remain divisive, his impact on the global techno and electronic scene is undeniable. Through mau5trap, he has consistently championed innovative producers and helped bring underground sounds to a wider audience.
First Tracks Set the Tone for Volume 12
Ahead of the full release, mau5trap has unveiled two preview tracks from We Are Friends Vol. 12, offering an early taste of what fans can expect.
The first comes from Ciauru with “Supersonic Electronic (on acid)”, a high-energy, pulsating track that leans into the off-kilter, driving aesthetic closely associated with the mau5trap sound. Its acid-infused rhythms and relentless momentum reflect the label’s continued commitment to club-focused experimentation.
Also released ahead of the compilation is the sole remix featured on the first disc. &friends and Moeaike deliver a lush reinterpretation of deadmau5’s seminal classic “Strobe”, reworking the track with atmospheric depth while maintaining its emotional core. The remix introduces a warmer, more inviting energy that bridges nostalgia with modern melodic sensibilities.
Looking Ahead to mau5trap’s Next Era
We Are Friends Vol. 12 will feature 15 tracks on Disc One, setting the foundation for the second half of the compilation, which is expected to follow at a later date. With these early releases, mau5trap signals another year dedicated to boundary-pushing production and artist development.
As the label moves into 2026, the latest volume reaffirms mau5trap’s relevance in an ever-evolving electronic landscape, blending established legacy with emerging voices.